Education activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike at Medanta hospital late on Thursday, after weeks of negotiation with the Centre.The news was confirmed by Leh Apex Body co-convenor Cherring Dorjay Lakruk.
“Mr Wangchuk broke the fast in the presence of two Union Ministers on certain conditions, he said.” “The government gave a written assurance that cases against students will be taken back if they are not violent, he added.” Also, compensation for NEET aspirants who took their lives would also be considered, he said based on the discussions.
Wangchuk as per sources broke the fast sipping from a cup while at Medanta hospital. Visuals circulating online showed Jitendra Singh helping Wangchuk sit up on his bed while Nadda offered him his first sip from a cup while his wife stood by his side.
Shortly afterwards, Wangchuk confirmed the development in a post on X, saying he had broken his fast after “long negotiations” and because of concerns that the agitation could turn violent.”Just now, in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Dr Jitendra Singh and the senior leaders of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh, I finally broke my fast after 26 days,” he wrote.He further revealed that 65 MoP had requested him to end his fast.”This was done after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country. I will explain the conditions in detail in a separate video very soon,” he said.
Despite ending his fast, Wangchuk urged supporters to keep the movement peaceful. “Meanwhile, I urge you all to stay very vigilant about not allowing violence of any kind anywhere,” he said.PM Modi reacting to the development wished Wangchuk speedy recovery.Sonam Wangchuk renowned education activist, environmentalist and social reformer in support of NEET UG controversy demanding resignation of union education minister was on indefinite strike since 28 June.
Late on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Union Cabinet would discuss a draft law providing for fast-track courts and stricter punishment for those involved in examination paper leaks. In a video message, Modi said the government had already ensured that students did not lose an academic year by conducting the re-examination and declaring the results, but stressed that it was “not satisfied” with those steps alone